The first “sensory-inclusive” retail store has opened in New York City. The NBA’s flagship store opened its doors on World Autism Awareness Day. The NBA worked with KultureCity to make the NBA Store more accommodating and accessible to guests with sensory sensitivities.

People with autism, dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other similar conditions can experience sensory sensitivities and challenges with sensory regulation. The bright lights, commotion and loud overhead paging of many big box stores can be overwhelming.

The store will offer bags with noise-cancelling headphones, fidget spinners, weighted lap blankets and more to families and individuals who may need them.

KultureCity is a non-profit organization dedicated to rethinking accessibility to create acceptance and inclusion for all individuals. It seeks to reverse the “out of sight, out of mind” segregation of people with autism. All NBA Store employees have gone through training led by KultureCity, to learn how to better interact, communicate and help those guests that may need assistance during their shopping experience.

KultureCity’s Resources page offers a collection of videos and articles for parents of children with autism.

Read all about the ongoing partnership between the NBA and KultureCity here!